There is something nostalgic about making a vintage DIY Christmas Gumdrop Tree and using it to decorate for the holiday. Christmas crafts that become homemade Christmas decorations are always one of my favorite things to do. Follow along for a full tutorial on how to make this classic Gumdrop Tree.

Christmas Gumdrop tree in multi colored gum drops.

DIY Vintage Christmas Gumdrop Tree

DIY Christmas decorations are some of my favorites. I like creating a more personal custom look for my holiday decor and this DIY vintage Christmas gumdrop tree is right up my alley! Another easy Christmas craft from my youth that is making a comeback in my home. I made a gumdrop tree years ago and believe it or not, I still use it. It’s the one on the right in the photo below. Since my Christmas decor leaned towards a candy theme this year (you can kind of see the candy garland on my tree that I purchased at The Dollar Tree years ago), I decided to make another gumdrop tree and share the DIY with all of you! This is a great holiday craft for all ages!

Christmas decor showing two gumdrop Christmas trees.

DIY Christmas Candy Decorations

There are so many fun Christmas candy decorations you can make to decorate for the holidays, especially using gumdrops. This gumdrop wreath would be amazing, but definitely in cooler climates. And this gumdrop pomander, kissing ball is really cute! Gumdrop snowflakes are next on my list to try.

What is a Gumdrop Tree?

A gumdrop tree is a cone-shaped tree made by using gumdrop candy and a styrofoam cone. These can be saved and preserved for use year after year. The candies harden, making it easy to store.

If you want to make your own gumdrop Christmas tree, you’ll need the following items:

Gumdrops – you can find multi-color bags, green and red, or just one color.
Toothpicks – flat or round. The flat are easier to break for this Christmas project.
Styrofoam cone – you can use the white styrofoam or the green florist forms. I find white easier because of the white background.

How to Make a Gumdrop Tree

Yield: 1

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated Cost: $15

Vintage classic Christmas decorations. Learn how to make a gumdrop tree that's perfect for DIY Christmas decor. This Christmas craft is great for all ages.

Materials

Gumdrops (often called spice drops) - I used 3 medium size bags. This all depends on the size of the cone you're using. Gumdrops can be found at The Dollar Store.
Styrofoam Cone
Toothpicks

Instructions

Gather your supplies.
Break the toothpicks in half. You can use a full toothpick if you want but it's not necessary. I've tried breaking them in 3rd and that's too short. They start to fall out as the gumdrops dry.
Stick the toothpick into the bottom flat side of the gumdrop, making sure you don't poke so far it is visible at the top dome side.
Stick the toothpick into the cone. I like starting at the bottom, but it's a personal preference.
Keep going until the entire cone is covered.

How to Store a Gumdrop Tree

I tightly wrap mine in a plastic shopping bag or tissue paper, then place it into another plastic bag. Place it into a plastic tote with other holiday decorations or you can place it in a plastic shoe box container. The candies dry out and keep their color. This will protect it from ants or mice in your storage space. I have had mine for at least 10 years and have had zero problems. You can also spray with a poly sealer to protect it from ants.

Notes

Gumdrops are often called Spice Drops. I found mine at The Dollar Store. The Dollar Store may also have the cones.

DIY Gumdrop Decorations

Decorating with gumdrops is a fun way to add more whimsy to your holiday decor. DIY Christmas decorations are a great way to save money and create traditions. DIY Gumdrop decorations are perfect for craft night or classroom crafts because almost everyone can participate. Making gumdrop trees, kissing balls, garlands or snowflakes is something all ages can enjoy and achieve!

Easy to Make Christmas Crafts

I’m all about easy Christmas crafting projects, especially if I can decorate with them when I’m finished. Homemade Christmas decorations always have more meaning.

three oranges with cloves. Orange pomanders. — Orange Pomanders

three long pinecones with string — Orange Pomanders

How to Preserve and Store a Gumdrop Tree

I’ve had mine for at least 10 years. Besides an occasional gumdrop falling out, it’s kept its color and beauty! I haven’t been that careful with it and usually wrap in tissue paper and then a plastic shopping bag. I then place it in a tote with other holiday decorations. You can store it in a plastic shoe box separately if your area is prone to insects. You can also spray with a poly acrylic sealer to keep bugs away. If you making a gumdrop wreath and want to use it outdoors, then you should definitely add a few coats of a spray sealer to protect it from moisture and insects.